- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Cheapest price
$83
Average price
$122
Fastest journey
3 h 24 m
Average duration
3 h 28 m
Trains per day
27
Distance
283 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Liverpool to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Liverpool to Edinburgh will cost around $122 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
It's difficult to get from Liverpool to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
W33563+
G86232
G86226+
W33799
W33390+
G86217
W33753+
G86251
W85173 · W85167
W85173 · W85167
W85173 · W85167
W85198 · W85202
W33563+
G86232
W33390+
G86217Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Liverpool to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, and a train costs an average of $43.
Distance: 175 miles (283 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $62 Average price Cheapest | $121 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 27m Average total duration Fastest 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 29m Average total duration 6h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Liverpool to Edinburgh:
A bus is $32 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Liverpool to Edinburgh costing on average $94 (€77).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 57m.
Bus takes on average 6h 59m.
Tickets start at around $94 (€77) compared to roughly $121 (€99) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27 (€22). The journey takes 4h 57m versus 4h 28m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Liverpool to Edinburgh trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G86248+ W34023+ W85164 | On time 5:43 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h58 | 9:41 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G86250+ W34213 | On time 5:46 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h33 | 10:19 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G15866+ P28621+ W85165+ L87904 | On time 5:53 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 6h13 | 12:06 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4 transfers | |
G15866+ G66982 | On time 5:53 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h15 | 11:08 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86263+ W34213 | On time 5:56 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h23 | 10:19 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86217+ W34213 | On time 6:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h34 | 10:19 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W85174 · W85168 | On time 8:13 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h24 | 11:37 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86232+ W34144 | On time 8:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h35 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84670 · W85177 | On time 9:19 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h13 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G89639+ W85177 | On time 9:39 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h53 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86241+ C01369+ W85177 | On time 9:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h47 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W84677 · W85179 · W85182 | On time 10:19 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h17 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G86251+ W33941 | On time 10:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h34 | 2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84683 · W85182 | On time 11:19 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h17 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G89647+ W85182 | On time 11:39 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h57 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86218+ W33935+ W85182 | On time 11:45 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h51 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G86226+ W34286 | On time 12:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h33 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86230+ W34290 | On time 1:15 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 5h05 | 6:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84695 · W85191 | On time 1:19 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h21 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G89657+ W85191 | On time 1:39 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h01 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86233+ C01372+ W85191 | On time 1:43 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h57 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G86242+ W34290 | On time 2:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h35 | 6:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W85197 · W85201 | On time 4:12 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h28 | 7:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86214+ W34289 | On time 4:15 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h09 | 8:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86219+ W34289 | On time 4:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h39 | 8:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G89633+ W85208 | On time 5:39 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h02 | 9:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G86227+ W34287+ W85208 | On time 5:45 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h56 | 9:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W84725+ W34291 | On time 6:19 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h02 | 10:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G89637+ W34291 | On time 6:39 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h42 | 10:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W84746 · W85210 | On time 8:13 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 3h28 | 11:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
A29051+ P28614+ W85163 | 5:03 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 4h37 | 9:40 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Liverpool to Edinburgh run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:17, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 175 miles (283 km) distance in 3h 24m.
Distance 175 miles (283 km) |
Average train duration 4h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 24m |
First train 12:17 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
Ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park with the city’s most famous hike and outstanding panoramic views. A classic outdoor Edinburgh experience.
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a peppery savoury pudding traditionally made with oats and offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns supps
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Though from Cullen, it is a classic on Edinburgh menus and a comforting local staple
A traditional hearty soup of barley, root vegetables and usually lamb or mutton. It is a long-standing Scottish comfort food commonly found in pubs and cafes
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
The train connection between Liverpool and Edinburgh offers a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two cities. Passengers can choose from several providers, including Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, and London North Eastern Railway. With frequent services available throughout the day, travelers can enjoy comfortable rides while taking in the picturesque landscapes of northern England and southern Scotland along the route.
The train journey from Liverpool to Edinburgh takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. There are no direct connections available, with an average of 7 trains operating daily between the two cities. Passengers will need to make at least one transfer during their trip.
The first daily journey from Liverpool to Edinburgh departs at 04:33, allowing early travelers to start their day with a scenic train ride. The last departure is scheduled for 19:44, providing an option for those who wish to explore the vibrant culture of both cities before heading back in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey from Liverpool to Edinburgh is €26. The average ticket price typically hovers around €84, making it essential to book in advance or look out for deals if you're aiming to save on your travel expenses.
Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and has served as both a royal residence and military stronghold. Its significance lies in being one of Scotland's most iconic symbols, showcasing the nation's tumultuous past through its impressive architecture and historical artifacts like the Honours of Scotland. Unique features include St Margaret’s Chapel—the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh—and panoramic views that offer breathtaking vistas of the city below.
Holyrood Palace stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and is an official residence for The Queen when she visits Scotland; it embodies centuries of royal heritage since its establishment in 1501. This magnificent palace holds great significance not only as a home but also as a site where key events in Scottish history unfolded, including Mary Queen of Scots' dramatic life story. Visitors are captivated by unique elements such as beautifully landscaped gardens and opulent state apartments filled with exquisite art collections.
Arthur's Seat is an ancient volcano rising majestically from Holyrood Park, offering visitors stunning natural beauty alongside fascinating geological history that dates back millions of years. As one of Edinburgh’s most beloved landmarks, it holds cultural significance tied to local legends—many believe it's named after King Arthur himself or his knights who once roamed these hills. What sets this landmark apart are its accessible hiking trails leading to sweeping views over the cityscape while providing an escape into nature right within urban surroundings.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Liverpool to Edinburgh by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Liverpool to Edinburgh trains use the Liverpool Lime Street to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Liverpool and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Liverpool Lime Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, Upper Crust, Starbucks, JD Wetherspoon
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located near Platform 7.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38, Sun: 07:15 - 23:05. Information desks are located in the main concourse.
Luggage storage is the Excess Baggage Co. lockers and staffed luggage storage counter are located in the main concourse near the escalators across from Platform 6. Open daily 08:00 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Lime Street: Full wheelchair access throughout the station, with help points at the Skelhorne Street entrance and at customer information desk in the main concourse.
Nearby hotels include Pembroke Studios, Riley’s Rooms, Holiday Inn Liverpool City Center.
Liverpool Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Liverpool Central.
Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool Central. ATMs are available at Liverpool Central.
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Liverpool Central: Parking, WC.
Available at Liverpool Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” All platforms can be accessed via lift, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Moorfields has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Moorfields.
Wi-Fi is available at Moorfields. ATMs are available at Moorfields.
Ticket office support is available at Moorfields. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Moorfields: Parking, WC.
Available at Moorfields: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Moorfields: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” Platforms via Moorfields entrance are accessible via lifts. However the Old Hall Street entrance has no disabled access, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Slateford is 4 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Slateford has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Slateford.
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Slateford: Parking.
Available at Slateford: Bike Parking.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need